Why is Hitman Episodic? IO Discusses its Release Structure

Why is Hitman episodic? It is the very first Hitman game to be released in such a manner, but why? Episodic releases are a growing trend and more devs are opting for episodic release patterns. Hitman will feature 7 episodes, each with fresh new locations and missions.

What I like about such releases is that we don’t have to buy the entire game to see if it is worth it. Players can just buy one episode and see if IO has delivered.

You can also skip the episode you feel isn’t worth it and get the next one. However, IO says you will miss out on some story content.

The exciting thing about going episodic is that this format allows us to create a living game that will expand and evolve over time, IO Interactive said. As we’ve said before, we want to shape the game with the people playing it and by going down this route we believe we’re creating the best possible base for success.

We will be able to respond much faster to feedback, analyse player behaviour and implement changes on a regular basis that simply wasn’t possible before.

The downside of such releases is that players can’t trade in their games little after its release. Also, you have to wait a while before the next episode is released.

Many would prefer getting a full retail version so to such gamers episodic releases won’t be appealing. If you are one of those who like to get the final retail version of Hitman, then you will have to wait till 2017.